What can you bring to the Illinois real estate exam?

Short answer: Bring one acceptable government ID. If you are testing at a center, bring a simple physical calculator only after confirming the current rule. Do not bring personal paper or a pencil into the room because PSI supplies them. A remote candidate needs the approved computer and room setup, but no physical calculator or scratch paper.

PSI requires one current, valid, unexpired government-issued document with a photograph and signature. The first and last name must match the scheduled name.

An expired document, missing photo or signature, name mismatch, or unacceptable remote military ID invalidates the registration. You cannot test and forfeit the fee.

Check edge cases in the Illinois PSI identification guide.

The current booklet permits a physical calculator at a test center and prohibits one during remote proctoring. It does not publish a detailed model list or promise that the center supplies a device.

• Confirm the rule for the booked appointment.
• Prefer a simple standalone calculator you know how to use.
• Do not use a phone, smartwatch, or tablet as a calculator.
• Clear stored values and follow the administrator's inspection.
• Have a basic arithmetic backup plan if the device is rejected.

See the full Illinois real estate exam calculator policy before choosing a device or delivery format.

No. Personal notebooks, loose paper, notes, formula sheets, pens, pencils, and other writing materials are prohibited.

At a test center, PSI gives you one piece of scratch paper and a pencil. Return both at checkout. During remote proctoring, scratch paper is not allowed at all.

The Illinois PSI scratch-paper guide includes a paper-free math method for remote candidates.

PSI prohibits electronic devices of any type unless the device is the authorized examination equipment. The booklet's examples include:

• Cellular phones and other mobile devices.
• Cameras and audio or video recording devices.
• Personal laptops, tablets, iPads, and other computers.
• Earbuds, headphones, and headsets.
• Electronic games and music players.
• Electronic watches and smartwatches.
• Pagers, radios, and televisions.

Silent mode, airplane mode, a dark screen, or a calculator app does not make an electronic device acceptable.

Wear simple, comfortable clothing appropriate without an outer layer. PSI can ask you to remove bulky or loose items, so a shirt or blouse should be worn underneath.

• Hats, baseball caps, and visors are prohibited.
• Headgear worn for religious reasons or as religious apparel is excepted.
• Open sweaters and cardigans are prohibited bulky or loose clothing.
• Shawls, scarves, vests, jackets, and coats are prohibited.
• Eyeglass frames and apparel can be inspected for recording devices.

Proctors may ask candidates to empty and turn out pockets, lift sleeve ends, and raise pant-leg bottoms during security checks.

When a prohibited item appears at check-in, PSI directs the candidate to put it in provided secure storage or return it to the vehicle. PSI does not accept responsibility for personal belongings or prohibited items.

Reduce risk before you arrive:

1. Leave valuables and unnecessary items at home.
2. Carry ID separately so it is easy to present.
3. Do not assume a large bag or coat will fit storage.
4. Do not leave valuables visibly inside a vehicle.
5. Allow time for storage and security before the appointment.

The authorized computer, camera, microphone, speakers, power, and network are necessary. The rest of the desk and reachable area should be clear.

• Keep the accepted ID available for check-in.
• Remove paper, writing tools, calculators, watches, and references.
• Disconnect and remove extra electronic devices.
• Keep food, drink, gum, tobacco, bags, and personal items away.
• Use a phone for ID capture only if PSI directs you, then store it.
• Keep prohibited items outside both reach and line of sight.

Review the room scan and storage plan in the Illinois PSI remote room setup guide.

No accompanying person may wait in the examination center, inside the building, or on the property. PSI says this applies to drivers, children, friends, family, colleagues, and instructors.

Arrange transportation and childcare accordingly. A guest should leave the property and return only after you communicate that the appointment is complete.

Check PSI's current comfort-aid and accommodation rules before scheduling. Some items can be allowed under a standard comfort-aid policy, while others require advance approval.

A medically important item should never be hidden from the proctor. Obtain any required written authorization, schedule through the instructed channel, and present the item openly during check-in.

• PSI Illinois Candidate Information Booklet dated June 24, 2026
• PSI Illinois Real Estate Examination Program

Your appointment confirmation, approved accommodation, check-in instructions, and current PSI security rules govern admission and item use.